Dharmasala: A Buddhist relic of ancient era has been discovered at Tini Muhani, the origin of river Kelua under Dharmasala tehsil in Jajpur district.
The discovery was made by Buddhist researcher Dr Nrusingha Charan Sahu while carrying out research work in Brahamani- Kelua island basin sponsored by the state culture department.
The relic representing a dome like structure called ‘stupa’ and a Buddhist settlement was found lying abandoned in the water body.
Sahu conducted an examination of the dome and the settlement following which he claimed that sandstones from Jaraka might have been used in the construction of the settlement. The discovery is indicative of the spread of Buddhism in the area during ancient period.
When contacted, Sahu said Kelua is not a naturally formed river and Dharmasala region had link with the west by land before the creation of Brahamani- Kelua island basin.
Buddhist architectures faced destruction as Brahmani used to play havoc to the region before 1825.
The discovery of various Buddhist era relics from Uttar Pratap, Narsinghpur, Bedipur, Chainhuda villages in the area is indicative of the spread of the religion in ancient times.
Moreover, the attachment of people of Jaleshwar, Multeshwar and Rameshwar towards the religion also speaks volumes about Buddhism’s importance in the region.
Sahu claimed that many relics have been washed away in the river while many are still buried under water. The discovered objects need to be conserved properly to throw light on past. PNN